Got Lucky (Score 1)

Laid off twice in 2001 Got a unspecified job at a small company thanks to a incredible head-hunter. Unspecified as I did not really know what my responsibilities where. All I knew was I was to be able to act "autonomously". One year later I have received a nice raise and was asked "to be more part of the family". My buddies also recently laid off are suffering or have bought a Togo sandwidch shop. I am beginning to realize success requires not being specialized in the field of programming. I have in the past year researched new technology, learned the way a specific industry works, specified a new product's features, architected the system and wrote the code in time for a demo at THE trade show in Chicago. The demo went well while I vacationed in Maui. All the above led up to an excellent review. All the above led up to a great experience. The ability to act autonomously really lets one compete where it counts. To create something that will generate profits in the marketplace. Coding without the end results being profitable is just solving crossword puzzles or playing EverQuest. All I can say is good luck to those who can't see the big picture and act in what ever manner is required to make something people will pay money for. That money is the only reason you deserve a paycheck!